"Polaris No. 1 (Mind, Body, Spirit)"
Updated: Jan 29
For my "Polaris" series, I have created compositions that depict both literal and abstract references to the moon.
In “Mind, Body, Spirit”, the figure is a charcoal drawing and the anchor of realism in the piece. Her posture creates a triangle in her reach for the moon and highlights her symbolic place in nature. This design puts her in the center, in the place of action and resignation and wonder. She has sought out a quiet place in nature where we all often find reflection and healing.
After the beginning concept is decided and the idea is sketched out, my pieces always begin with the charcoal drawing. It is the center of the work and the foundation for the design. Following the charcoal, I painted the pastel section of the moon and the watercolor background. The final elements were the star details, the geometric line work and the metal leaf. These multiple layers and the spontaneous choices for the finished details are a very organic process as the work nears completion. Within the boundaries of the frame design, the artwork is suspended on a black background in a direct reference to space.
Polaris No. 1 (Mind, Body, Spirit)
charcoal, pastel, watercolor, and metal leaf on Canson mixed media board
24x16" artwork size, 33x25" framed
2023
Polaris Solo Exhibition
Grand Bohemian Lodge Gallery
Falls Park, Greenville, SC